THE INFLUENCE OF MASS PROPORTIONS AND COUPLING STIFFNESS ON LOADING IN SIMULATED FOREFOOT-HEEL LANDINGS

Abstract

The aim of this study was to gain a further insight into whole body mass proportion and coupling stiffness contributions to loading in forefoot-heel landings. Two landing performances were simulated using a customised wobbling mass model. Personalised segmental mass proportions and coupling stiffness values were independently and simultaneously modified in the model and the impact loads examined. A 10% larger rigid mass proportion increased the peak GFz and ankle moment by 0.73 BW and 0.38 N·m.kg-1, respectively. Reducing mass coupling stiffness had a smaller influence on loading than mass proportion and alleviated the larger peak GFz produced with relatively larger rigid mass proportions. A neuromuscular response that is tuned to an individual’s inherent mass properties may help to alleviate the excessive loads incurred in landing.